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Planning a wedding in New York City? Between traffic, subway delays, and tight venue schedules, building a wedding timeline that actually works can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’ve helped dozens of couples navigate the madness, and I’m breaking it all down for you.

Here’s how to create a stress-free, realistic wedding day timeline that keeps everything flowing—and still leaves space to breathe.

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Start With What Matters Most

Before you get caught up in minute-by-minute planning, take a step back. Ask yourselves:
What are the three most important moments of our wedding day?

For some couples, it’s the ceremony. For others, it’s private vows, golden hour portraits, or partying on the dance floor. Your timeline should reflect those priorities and protect time for them.

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NYC Wedding Timeline Rule #1: Add Buffer Time (Everywhere!)

Traffic in Manhattan. Uber delays in Brooklyn. A florist who’s stuck on the FDR. NYC doesn’t care that it’s your wedding day. So your timeline needs cushion time built into every part of the day.

Pro tip:

• Add 15–20 extra minutes for getting ready
• Plan at least 30 minutes for traveling between locations
• Pad in time between family portraits and cocktail hour in case things run over

It’s way easier to relax when you’re not rushing to catch up every hour.

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Getting Ready: Start Earlier Than You Think

Hair and makeup always take longer than expected—especially if you have a group.

For NYC weddings, I recommend starting hair and makeup about 5–6 hours before your ceremony, especially if you’re doing a first look and portraits beforehand.

Want golden hour portraits in DUMBO or Central Park? We’ll plan around the light!

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First Look or No First Look?

Doing a first look means you can take most (if not all) portraits before the ceremony. That way, you’re not disappearing for an hour during cocktail hour, and you get more time to enjoy your guests.

Skipping the first look? Just know you’ll need to build in a solid 45–60 minutes between the ceremony and reception for family photos, couple portraits, and bridal party shots.

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Ceremony to Reception: Think Logistically

If you’re having your ceremony and reception in different parts of the city, factor in:

• Travel time for guests
• Loading/unloading gear for vendors
• Possible delays from weekend traffic or street closures

Even better? If you can keep things in one venue or neighborhood, you’ll save so much stress.

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Photography Timeline Example (With a First Look)

Here’s a sample timeline for a Brooklyn wedding with everything in one location:

• 12:00 PM – Hair & makeup finishes
• 12:30 PM – Photographer arrives, flat lay + details
• 1:15 PM – Get dressed
• 2:00 PM – First look & couple portraits
• 2:45 PM – Bridal party photos
• 3:30 PM – Family photos
• 4:30 PM – Hide & freshen up
• 5:00 PM – Ceremony
• 5:30 PM – Cocktail hour
• 6:30 PM – Reception begins
• 9:00 PM – Golden hour portraits (optional)
• 10:30 PM – Final dance / exit

Every wedding is different—but a great timeline is flexible, realistic, and allows space for the unexpected.

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Work With Your Photographer on the Timeline

Your photographer (hi, that’s me 👋🏽) can help you figure out exactly how much time you’ll need for each section of the day. I build custom timelines for every couple to keep things moving smoothly—without turning your day into a military operation.

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Final Thoughts: A Calm Day is a Beautiful One

The best wedding timelines don’t just check boxes—they create a flow that allows you to actually enjoy your day. With a little buffer, some honest priorities, and an NYC-savvy photographer in your corner, you’ll be able to stay present, relaxed, and in love with every part of it.

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how to create a wedding timeline that actually works

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NYC wedding timeline tips that actually work—get real advice on creating a smooth, stress-free day with room to breathe and time to enjoy.

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